The Sixth Day

It’s 1947 and Seddika’s grandchild is diagnosed with cholera. She sets off for Alexandria in the hope that the coastal climate may cure him. She is accompanied by an organ grinder, Okka, whose life affirming spirit contrasts with the atmosphere of death around them. Chahine’s adaptation of André Chedid’s novel successfully incorporates a lively Gene Kelly musical mash-up in his drama, a frank reflection on desire and an ode to cinema. It features the last screen appearance by Egypt-born, French-Italian singer Dalida.

Restored by Cinémathèque française, Orange Studio and Misr International Films, with the support of CNC, and Association Youssef Chahine.

Texts by Elhum Shakerifar for Drama and Desire: The Films of Youssef Chahine at BFI and Ciné Lumière

In cultural partnership with the BFI and SAFAR film festival

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